Founded in 1903, the WEA (Workers' Educational Association) is a charity dedicated to bringing high-quality, professional education into the heart of communities. It is the UK's largest voluntary sector provider of adult education, nationally it has about 30,000 students, with over 750 tutors. 

In Sidmouth, Kennaway House hosted WEA courses until lockdown meant a switch to online provision.

Since it was founded, the WEA has used tutors rather than lecturers, and the distinction is important, as these courses value student participation, especially in a subject where diverse views are strongly held. 

The course is titled 'Beyond Ideologies' and the tutor, Dr Kevin Walker, explains that "this course is for those who want to understand why our politics is failing us and our politicians are held in such low regard. It will help to explain how different political ideas have fuelled so much conflict, and how, by going beyond these polarising ideologies can we find some hope for the future."

The course starts on Monday 20 February, from 2-4pm, running for six weeks, and examining different ideologies each week.

As a charity the WEA can access funding that enables it to subside all its courses and offer free places to those earning less than £18,500 per annum or on certain benefits.

More information can be found at wea.org.uk or by ringing 0300 303 3464.